AG says illegal immigrants can't be licensed

The Wisconsin Attorney General says illegal immigrants are not entitled to professional licenses from the state.

A written opinion from Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen advises the State Department of Regulation and Licensing not to issue licenses or credentials to illegal aliens. DOJ spokesman Kevin St. John says the decision was made based on federal law, which states illegal immigrants aren't entitled to any professional license from state or local government.

St. John says the opinion was requested by the Department after it encountered several individuals it suspected had applied for licenses illegally.

The opinion concludes that the state is allowed to ask applicants seeking a professional license or certification to prove their immigration status. Van Hollen is also recommending the Department develop a process for verifying that information.